There is something truly magical about Charleston during the Christmas season. Historic streets glow with twinkling lights, elegant homes are adorned with wreaths and garland, and the city’s timeless Southern charm feels even warmer during the holidays. Join us as we fly away to one of America’s most beautiful historic cities for a festive Christmas experience filled with history, music, lights, and holiday traditions.
Day 1 – Home to Charleston, SC
Today we fly from Minneapolis to charming Charleston, South Carolina. Upon arrival, we’ll check into our hotel, the lovely Hampton Inn Charleston Historic District, ideally located in the heart of the historic area. After settling in for the next 5 nights, we’ll gather for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant just steps from our hotel. Tonight is the perfect time to relax, unpack, and prepare for a wonderful Christmas tour ahead.
Included Meals: Dinner
Hotel: Hampton Inn Charleston Historic District (5 Nights)
Day 2 – Charleston
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before meeting our knowledgeable local step-on guide for a narrated driving tour of Charleston. As we explore the city, we’ll learn about its rich history, European influences, and beautifully preserved landmarks. Our tour includes a visit to The Citadel, Charleston’s renowned military college. Next, enjoy time on your own for lunch and shopping at the historic City Market. Afterwards, we’ll get to walk through the lobby of the stunning Charleston Place Hotel, beautifully decorated for Christmas and often referred to as the “Living Room of Charleston.” This afternoon, we’ll take a scenic drive to the legendary Angel Oak Tree, with our guide sharing more fascinating history along the way. This 65 ft. tall ancient Southern live oak is more than just a tree, it’s a symbol of endurance and resilience. The tree’s canopy provides more than 17,000 sq. ft. of shade! After some rest back at the hotel, we’ll enjoy dinner at a local favorite before heading out for an enchanting evening drive through the Festival of Lights at James Island, one of the area’s most beloved holiday traditions.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 3 – Charleston
Following breakfast, we travel to historic Boone Hall Plantation, one of America’s oldest working plantations, with 330 years of history! Our visit includes a guided tour of the Georgian-designed mansion, a meaningful one-of-a-kind Gullah presentation that shares the rich cultural heritage of the Lowcountry, and lunch served on the plantation grounds. This evening, we’ll attend the popular holiday production: “A Christmas Special,” a festive show filled with music and seasonal cheer that is sure to put us in the Christmas spirit!
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 4 – Charleston
After breakfast, we’ll walk next door to the beautifully decorated 1803 Adam-style Joseph Manigault House, where we’ll enjoy a guided tour showcasing how Charleston families celebrated Christmas in years past. We’ll also have time to explore the lovely grounds and see the classical Gate Temple that overlooks a period garden. Next, we’ll continue to step back in time on a horse-drawn carriage ride through historic Charleston, passing grand homes and cobblestone streets dressed for the holidays. Lunch is on your own once again at the City Market. This afternoon, we’ll attend a matinee performance of the classic “A Christmas Carol” at the historic Dock Street Theatre, adding a beloved holiday tradition to our journey as we follow along with Scrooge’s tale. Fun fact: The historic Dock Street Theatre was the first structure in America built exclusively to be used for theatrical performances – February 12, 1736 was its first opening night! Dinner is included this evening in the Historic District, followed by a relaxing evening on your own.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 5 – Charleston
Enjoy a leisurely morning with breakfast at the hotel. Late morning, we’ll board a cruise to Fort Sumter, where history comes alive as we learn about one of the most significant sites in American history. On April 12, 1861, the Civil War began when Confederate troops fired on Fort Sumter. We’ll enjoy a self-guided tour of the fort, watch a presentation, and then have a boxed lunch during our cruise back to Charleston. Our afternoon continues with a visit to a charming European-style Christmas market, featuring festive décor, artisan vendors, and seasonal treats. This is a great place to find Christmas presents! Afterward, enjoy time to rest at the hotel or explore Charleston’s nearby historic squares and unique shops. This evening, we’ll experience Aquarium Aglow at the Charleston Aquarium, where thousands of twinkling lights transform the aquarium into a magical holiday wonderland. What a beautiful way to spend our final night in Charleston!
Included Meals: Breakfast, Box Lunch
Day 6 – Charleston to Home
After one last breakfast at the hotel, we pack up and head to the airport for our flight home, bringing with us wonderful memories of Charleston’s charm and the joy of celebrating Christmas together.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Flyaway Per Person Pricing Information
Flyaway Travel Protection Per Person
Travel Bucks
Deposit Due
Passport Needed
Tour Pace
Price Includes
RT Airfare including taxes, fuel surcharges, & baggage fees! 10 Meals, Hotels & Activities as stated in brochure, Luxury Motorcoach
12/09/2026 12/14/2026
Tour Map
Tour Highlights
* 5 Nights at Hampton Inn Charleston Historic District
* Charleston City Tour including Stop at Citadel
* Festival of Lights at James Island
* Boone Hall Plantation Tour including Gullah Presentation & Lunch
* “A Christmas Special” Show
* Horse-Drawn Carriages Rides of Historic District
* “A Christmas Carol” at Historic Dock Street Theatre
* Cruise to Tour Fort Sumter
* European-Style Christmas Market
* Aquarium Aglow at Charleston Aquarium
